POSITION SUMMARY

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Under the guidance of the Swim Lesson Director, the Swim Lesson Instructor is responsible for the direct supervision, control and safety of members and participants during Swim Lessons. The YSL Instructor will communicate effectively and provide leadership in instructional areas of aquatic programs according to the YMCA aquatic policy while maintaining a safe environment.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Instructs swimming lessons in accordance with YMCA guidelines, having prepared lesson plans accordingly. Builds effective, authentic relationships with students and parents; helps them connect with each other and the YMCA. Encourages parent involvement and identifies potential volunteers. Maintains records as required (i.e. attendance, progress reports, etc.). Attends all necessary training when scheduled. Follows all YMCA policies, rules, regulations and procedures, including emergency and safety procedures. Assists with completion of incident and accident reports as necessary. Organizes and puts away needed class equipment. Assists in training new Instructors as assigned. Works effectively with children and adults in a learning situation based on individual needs. Uses positive reinforcement as a reward for skills achieved as well as good behavior. Maintains constant watch on all class members and ensures their safety during the class. Keeps participants moving as much as possible to get the most out of each class. Regularly updates skill sheets for each class, accurately recording skills, attendance, and students' progress. Prior to the opening of registration periods, completes and distributes progress reports in a timely fashion. Must be able to meet the physical and emotional demands of the job including being able to get into the water for training and instruction. Adheres to all pool rules and policies. Communicates requests for replacement and time off to supervisor; finds qualified replacement to cover schedule conflicts. Ensures participants are registered for the appropriate level by evaluating skill level the first day of class; notifies supervisor of participants registered for an inappropriate level.

EDUCATION AND YEARS OF EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

Prior experience as a Swim Lesson Instructor is a preferred but not required Must be 16 years old or older and have a minimum education level of High School Graduate or equivalent. Staff over the age of 18 must pass a criminal background check.

REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES

Swim Instructors must achieve and maintain: Basic Life Support (CPR with Oxygen) / Basic First Aid Certifications. Employee will be asked to take additional education requirements as offered by the Aquatic Director (YSL Training). Must be able to demonstrate swim instructor skills in accordance with YMCA standards. Reliable and punctual attendance.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Instructors must be able to demonstrate proper stroke techniques. Must be able to stand, kneel, bend, stoop, reach overhead. The position requires proficient swimming ability and the proper application of rescue and first aid techniques. Must have the ability to lift various materials up to 25 lbs. occasionally and the ability to properly extract individuals from the pool(s) to the deck as needed in rescues. The employee is regularly required to use written and oral communication skills; observe and possibly interpret people and situations; analyze and solve problems. May interact with members and participants who are distressed or dissatisfied. Exposure to pools, wet and very humid conditions, and chemicals. The noise level in the work environment can vary from quiet to loud depending upon the programming that is occurring at the time.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS STATEMENT

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Countryside YMCA is committed to providing a safe environment for all children and vulnerable individuals in our care. We follow best practices for abuse prevention, including thorough screening, ongoing training, and clear behavioral expectations for staff and volunteers. We have a zero-tolerance policy for abuse and take all allegations and concerns very seriously. All employees are required to follow our child protection policies, complete required training, and report any suspicious or inappropriate behavior immediately.